Genital Warts: Is It Just a Pimple or Something More?

Cauliflower

Hello, I would like to ask about a situation.
In September and October, I used the towels of someone with genital warts four to five times.
In December, I noticed a growth about one finger's width away from the perineum.
I went to the hospital, and they said it was normal, but when I visited the gynecologist, they said it was just a pimple.
I used the medication prescribed by the gynecologist, but it hasn't gone away, and I forgot to apply it until now.
That growth is still there; it is a single bump and hasn't increased in size or number.
Could this mean it is not genital warts but rather a pimple or comedo? If there are no other growths besides this one, should I be concerned about an infection?

11, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/26

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

In October, I used the towel of someone with warts four to five times.
In December, I noticed a growth about one finger's width away from the perineum.
I went to a hospital and was told it was normal, but when I visited a gynecologist, they said it was just a pimple.
I used the medication prescribed by the gynecologist, but it hasn't gone away.
I forgot to apply it, and that growth is still there.
It's just a single growth that hasn't increased in number or size.
Could this be something other than warts, like a pimple or acne? Since there are no other growths, should I be concerned about an infection? Answer: There is no need to worry about an infection.

Reply Date: 2019/03/26

More Info

When it comes to understanding genital warts, it’s essential to differentiate between various skin lesions and their potential implications. Based on your description, you have a single lesion that has persisted despite treatment, and you are concerned about whether it could be genital warts (also known as condylomata acuminata) or something less serious, such as a pimple or acne.

Genital warts are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted infection. They typically appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths in the genital area, and they can be raised or flat. They may also cluster together, resembling a cauliflower shape. In contrast, pimples or acne lesions are usually inflamed, red, and filled with pus, and they are more common in areas with a high concentration of sebaceous (oil) glands.

Given that you have only one lesion that has not changed in size or number, it is less likely to be genital warts, especially if it has not exhibited the typical characteristics of warts. However, the fact that it has not responded to topical treatments from your gynecologist raises some questions. It is important to note that not all skin lesions are easily identifiable, and some may require further evaluation.

Here are some considerations regarding your situation:
1. Persistence of the Lesion: If the lesion has remained unchanged for several months, it may not be a typical wart or pimple. Warts can sometimes be resistant to treatment, but they usually have a characteristic appearance. If it looks different from what you would expect for a wart, it may be something else.

2. Diagnosis: A definitive diagnosis often requires a physical examination by a healthcare professional. If the gynecologist suggested it was just a pimple, it might be worthwhile to seek a second opinion or consult a dermatologist who specializes in skin lesions. They may perform a biopsy or other diagnostic tests to determine the nature of the lesion.

3. Risk of Infection: If you have had close contact with someone who has genital warts, there is a risk of transmission. However, the presence of a single lesion that has not changed significantly may indicate that you have not contracted the virus, or it could be an unrelated skin issue.
4. Treatment Options: If the lesion is indeed a wart, there are various treatment options available, including topical treatments, cryotherapy (freezing), or laser therapy. If it is a pimple or another benign skin condition, different treatments may be more appropriate.

5. Monitoring: Keep an eye on the lesion for any changes in size, color, or texture. If it begins to grow, change, or if you develop new lesions, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while your current lesion may not be indicative of genital warts, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional who can provide a thorough examination and appropriate management. If you have concerns about HPV or other sexually transmitted infections, discussing these with your healthcare provider can also help alleviate anxiety and provide you with the necessary information and resources.

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